McConnell observes National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Maurice Hodges
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  October is recognized as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and is observed throughout the nation and here at McConnell.

The observance came from the first Day of Unity in October, 1981, by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Since then, advocates have been promoting awareness through community outreach and helping agencies.

"If the community is educated, then it can be stopped before it gets to the point where the victims don't see their options," said Dalene Blasi-Belt, 22nd Medical Operations Squadron domestic abuse victim advocate. "Nobody goes out with a person who walks up and slaps them across the face and says, 'You belong to me.' It doesn't happen that way. It starts out with a relationship where there's mutual care and respect, and gradually it builds to the point the victim feels like there is no other option."

The family advocacy personnel at McConnell provide a number of services for those seeking help. They can develop a safety plan, explain reporting options, assist in making informed decisions and provide support.

Family advocacy also educates the community about domestic violence and how violence is not only physical. It includes financial, emotional, sexual and psychological abuse.

"One thing I tell everybody I talk to, whether they have been in an abusive relationship or not, is to trust their own instinct," said Blasi-Belt. "If the situation doesn't seem right, you need to get out of that situation."

According to a recent presidential proclamation on National Domestic Awareness Month, although Americans have made substantial progress in reducing domestic violence, one in four women and one in seven men in the United States still suffer serious physical violence at the hands of a partner at least once during their lifetimes.

The proclamation continues to say, that every day, three women lose their lives in this country as a result of domestic violence. Millions of Americans live in daily, silent fear within their own homes.

"This October, let us honor National Domestic Violence Awareness Month by promoting peace in our own families, homes, and communities," said Barack Obama, president of the United States. "Let us renew our commitment to end domestic violence - in every city, every town, and every corner of America."

For more information about domestic violence prevention or services, call family advocacy at (316) 759-5091, the National Domestic hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit www.TheHotline.org.